Yes, you read it right. I meant to say “Mary Christmas” My last post was about unexpected peace. Today I would like to expound on this idea. We will return to the story of Mary.
Mary was in need of a peaceful night. She had been on a most amazing adventure. I want to share a little about Mary’s months leading up to the night she gave birth. She, an ordinary girl, was visited by an angel. When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary he spoke these words “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.”
I did a little research and discovered that the words do not be afraid were used over 72 times in the Bible before Mary heard them. Past history made no mention of God’s favor following the words do not be afraid. This stood out enough to catch my attention.
Having the favor of God means having grace and support. God knew Mary would be judged, gossiped about, misunderstood and shunned for being an unwed mother. No human had ever been asked to bear the weight of carrying the Son of God in her womb. Peolpe would not believe her story. I imagine Mary felt alone and scared. God showered her with grace. This grace became her strength and support to see the task God had given her through to the end. That task would also include seeing her son she bore nailed to a cross.
The pain would have been unbearable without God’s grace.
Mary and Joseph traveled and waited in a stable on that night of Jesus’ birth. The stars were shining brightly. The sounds were those of animals huddled in the stable with them. Their visitors were a few wisemen and a small group of shepherds. It was simple. It was peaceful. This peace is what I wish for you when I wish you a Mary Christmas.
Like Mary, you have experienced some pain. When a loved one develops dementia, human nature results in people judging, gossiping and even abandoning you in your journey. With patience and grace Mary trusted God. Few friends could comprehend. God revealed the truth to a relative named Elizabeth. This gave her a friend who understood.
Your Christmas may look and feel different if you slow down. Forget the hyped up lights, music and expectations we humans have made Christmas into. Return to the quiet starry night that brought Mary peace. Keep it simple. Return to the true reason for celebrating.
Two nights last week my husband and I were bundled up sitting in our field watching a meteor shower. The last year had been full of loss and pain. We had already decided this year Christmas would be different. We would keep it simple and marvel at the gift God sent under a starry night long ago. It was perfect. A true peace filled our hearts.
Mary gave birth to God’s son one night. She held her baby knowing her life had changed. God changed your world when he asked you to be a caregiver. You have His favor. God will give you peace just as he gave to Mary, my husband, and I.
Now you know why I wish you a Mary Christmas. This season can be filled with God’s favor. Walk in this favor. Ask him for wisdom in how to navigate family and friends. Ask God to send people to you who understand your journey.
I have listened to the voices of caregivers over the last couple of weeks. I hear loneliness, anxiety, exhaustion and frustration when I listen closely. If I could be there in person, I would wrap my arms around you and whisper “Be still and trust God”.
Word for Today
Acts 20:24
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
Help me to trust that your favor is with me just as it was with Mary. On the difficult days, I will try to walk in gentleness. An angel may not have appeared to me saying do not be afraid, but just like Mary I face a daunting task. Sometimes I watch someone slipping away from me and long for who they once were. Give me grace as I continue my task of walking with them to their eternal home with you. I thank you for sending Christ to bring me hope.
Amen
Walking Them Home 